Toronto FC's 1st goal-scorer Dichio to retire

Sep 9, 2009 - 4:47 PM TORONTO(AP) -- Danny Dichio, the striker who scored Toronto FC's first goal, is retiring.

Dichio made the announcement Wednesday in Toronto. The English native has 14 goals in 59 games for Toronto, with injuries limiting his playing time.

He scored three goals in 19 appearances this season with 13 of those coming off the bench.

The 34-year-old Dichio will serve as an ambassador for the soccer team and help with coaching, starting with the academy players before moving to the first team next year.

Dichio entered the record book on May 12, 2007, when he scored the franchise's first goal against the visiting Chicago Fire. Toronto fans still celebrate the goal with a song about Dichio in the 24th minute of every game.